Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants of 2023 have just been announced and eight spectacular Ottawa restaurants have made the coveted list. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, raw food, pasta, seafood or something in between, these featured Ottawa restaurants will delight you! Book your celebration, date night or girls' night out at one of these restaurants!
Alice
As soon as you step through the door, you’ll be transported into a whimsical wonderland that enchants all the senses. Located in Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood, you’ll find Alice — a vegetable and fermentation-focused tasting menu restaurant. Created by award-winning Chef Briana Kim, you can expect to be dazzled here. In February 2023, Chef Briana Kim won the Canadian Culinary Championship, where she competed against chefs from across the country. The menu at Alice is a culinary adventure, each dish is carefully crafted with artistic flair and attention to detail, presenting a feast for both the eyes and the palate. From savory delights to tantalizing desserts, the menu showcases a harmonious balance of flavors, textures and aromas. Briana Kim’s Alice restaurant is the highest ranking in Ottawa on the 2023 Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list.
Note: Alice closed in late 2023. Chef Briana Kim's new restaurant, Antheia will open in 2024.
Riviera
Riviera stands as a beacon of refined elegance and culinary excellence. This restaurant, located on the pedestrian-only Sparks Street, is upscale and captivates guests with its sophisticated ambiance and contemporary design. It exudes both comfort and style. The menu at Riviera showcases a harmonious blend of modern European and Canadian influences. From delicate seafood creations to perfectly cooked meats, every plate delivers an explosion of flavors that leave a lasting impression. Famous for its incredible wine and cocktail offerings, it’s no wonder that Riviera landed on the list of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants of 2023, as well as the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants list.
Arlo
Found on the charming Somerset West Street is Arlo. As you enter this restaurant, you’ll immediately notice its cozy and warm atmosphere, with both elegant and unique décor. Salt lamps and candles adorn each table, and in the warmer months, you can experience their patio cascading in twinkle lights. The menu features a creative and ever-evolving selection of dishes that celebrate bold flavors and innovative techniques. From small plates bursting with vibrant flavors to hearty mains that are sure to satisfy. Every dish is a true testament to the culinary expertise of the talented kitchen team. Being featured on the list of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and boasting a vast selection of natural wines that pair perfectly with the menu, you’re guaranteed an incredible experience from start to finish.
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand, in the heart of Westboro Village, is a culinary destination that seamlessly blends a lively atmosphere with an exceptional dining experience. This 2023 Best 100 Restaurants in Canada is a modern and stylish restaurant that captures attention with its sleek and contemporary design. The menu at Supply and Demand reflects a commitment to showcasing the finest ingredients. The talented chefs masterfully blend flavors and textures, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and explosively flavorful. With a changing menu depending on what’s available from local farmers and suppliers, each experience here will feel like the first. You can expect scrumptious small plates, a decadent pasta lineup and mains that delight the senses.
Perch
Offering a charming and intimate dining experience, Perch captures the essence of comfort and relaxation with its warm and inviting ambiance. Located in Little Italy, Perch has a commitment to ethical farming practices and sustainability, so you can feel good about the amazing food you’re eating. Perch prides itself on its farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing fresh Canadian ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the flavors of the season. The menu boasts a creative blend of contemporary and traditional flavors, with dishes that are expertly prepared and beautifully presented. From appetizers to desserts, each bite is a delightful journey for the taste buds. You have to check out this spot that made it onto the list of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants of the year.
Atelier
Atelier restaurant pushes the boundaries of gastronomy and offers a unique dining experience. This avant-garde establishment, located in Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood, takes the art of food to new heights, blending science, creativity and passion to create an impressive culinary journey. The menu at Atelier is a curated progression of thoughtfully crafted dishes, each one a culinary masterpiece. With a multi-course tasting menu that changes regularly, guests are treated to an array of flavors, textures and presentations. The talented chefs at Atelier showcase their skills through molecular gastronomy techniques. For those seeking an extraordinary culinary adventure, Atelier, one of Canada’s Best 100 Restaurants of 2023, is a must-visit destination.
North & Navy
Found right downtown Ottawa, North & Navy is an exceptional restaurant that has captivated the taste buds and hearts of diners in Ottawa. From the moment you step inside, you’re engulfed in a world of culinary excellence and Italian-inspired indulgence. The elegant and inviting atmosphere of North & Navy sets the stage for a remarkable dining experience. The menu is a celebration of authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist. Each dish is a masterpiece and every bite a symphony of taste sensations. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening, a gathering with friends or a special occasion celebration, North & Navy delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s also one of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants of 2023!
Gitanes
Located on the lively Elgin Street, Gitanes is a hidden culinary gem that transports guests to the vibrant streets of Paris. You’ll be greeted by an atmosphere that exudes the charm and allure of a traditional French bistro. The restaurant takes pride in offering a menu that highlights classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist. Every dish is crafted with care, precision and a deep respect for French culinary traditions. The flavors are robust, the ingredients are of the highest quality and the presentation is nothing short of artistry. Complementing the exquisite food is an extensive wine list featuring an impressive selection of French wines, allowing guests to indulge in the perfect pairing for their meal. Gitanes restaurant captures the essence of Parisian dining, making it a great addition to this year’s 100 Best Restaurants in Canada list.
